L&M adds former retailer to strengthen Washington business

Steve Williams, a former long-time retail executive, has joined L&M Cos. as manager of business development and will work to develop the Raleigh, NC-based company's Washington business.

"Steve has great expertise in produce merchandising and a strong passion for the business and L&M values," John Long, director of sales and operations for L&M's Washington business, said in a press release. "He's a super addition to our team."

Steve WilliamsBefore joining L&M, Williams spent the majority of his 35-year retail career with Sweetbay and Kash n' Karry supermarkets, moving up through the company to become director of fresh merchandising.

"Steve is an important part of an overall strategic move to enhance L&M's marketing efforts for our apple, pear and cherry business unit," John Oxford, president and chief executive officer of L&M, added in the press release.

Last week the company also added Doug Stoiber, formerly with U.S. Foodservice and Sysco, to the marketing team in Washington. Stoiber has been working for several years in L&M's transportation company, LMTS, managing produce transportation teams.

With his new responsibilities, Stoiber will be working alongside Williams, adding his expertise in foodservice and logistics to L&M's marketing team.

Before joining L&M, Stoiber spent 18 years in marketing and merchandising produce in the foodservice industry.